Every story – even literary fiction that seems to defy traditional plot structure – adheres to a classical story shape, be it rags to riches, hero's quest, or romantic comedy. Considering which structure best fits your story is a key to unlocking character nuance. Human beings on AND off the page reveal themselves most through what they desire, how they pursue their desires, and how they react when challenged. Taking a closer look at the mechanics of your story shape and considering the implications can mean the difference between a character using Blistex or Dior, seizing a conversation by the throat or observing in calculation, letting their life claim them or wrestling free and fighting for change. 

In this class, we’ll learn more about how the specific heat of a story shape can melt nonspecific characters down to detailed, compelling actors. We’ll read, watch, and discuss how characters reveal themselves when engaging in the footwork of their story shape, and find new ways of discovering how dramatic circumstances can unearth a character’s guiding ethos, physicality, dialogue, and perspective.  We'll review a few of the most commonly seen story structures, then jump into writing exercises and prompts that will inspire you to sketch fresh, nuanced versions of those already peopling your story. Bring your journal, notebook, or whatever tools you need to play, experiment, explore. The only preparation needed: come with your own work in mind, and specifically a character or two who needs greater definition.